The best things to do with kids in Penang are scattered across the island city, making it a great travel destination for your family. So, whether you're a parent of a teenager, child or even toddler, there are kid-friendly places in Penang for all ages and families.
This Malaysian island has a variety of city activities to keep all kinds of kids entertained. There is just so much to see and do here. Therefore, we're here to help you find the best ways to spend your time here - even if it's raining cats and dogs.
On quiet afternoons and rainy days, you can visit a Penang indoor playground, butterfly exhibits, pet cafes, interactive museums, and even a goat farm. Or, you can take your kids on an outdoor adventure cycling through town, street art spots, and night market shopping. Kid-friendly places in Penang also include amusement parks that will surely burn some energy off.
Furthermore, we will also give you some ideas on what to do in the evenings when it's dark, as well as how to cool off and make the most of a sweltering hot day in Malaysia.
So keep reading to discover all the best kid-friendly places in Penang. Our list of fun things to do with children on this Malaysian island will definitely stop any kid from getting bored.
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Best Things To Do With Kids in Penang
| For active kids | Escape Penang, Penang Hill, Electric bike ride |
| Interactive Museums | Dark Mansion, Teddyville Museum, Wonderfood Museum |
| On a rainy day | The TOP Komtar, Pet Cafe, Board Games at Kazan |
| Calmer activities | Trishaw ride, Batu Ferringhi Beach |
| Kids playgrounds | Penang Youth Park, Sia Boey Urban Archaeological Park, Hin Bus Depot |
| Wildlife | Penang Bird Park, Entopia Penang Butterfly Farm, Saanen Dairy Goat Farm |
| Night time activities | Stroll through a Penang Night Market, Street Art spotting |
Spend a Day (or Two) at Escape Penang
One of the best things to do in Penang is to check out the attractions at Escape theme park. This theme park is on the island's north shore, near the national park and is surrounded by natural forestry. It's home to the world's longest zip line coaster and longest water tube slide. Other than holding these two Guinness World Records, it is packed to the brim with activities.
Escape theme park is one of the best kid-friendly places in Penang, as it has activities for all age ranges and is super family-friendly. There's something for everyone.
You could go down the zip line, check out the waterslides, or challenge yourself on the ropes climbing course. Your toddlers can get wet at the splash zone - a play space with small fountains. Meanwhile, your older children can get adventurous at the Gecko Climbing Wall or even try Acrobatics.
The November to April dry season is the best time to visit. Avoid the rain in the wetter months to engage in rain-free fun. However, get early morning tickets to avoid the afternoon pours if you go during the wetter months.
ESCAPE Penang
828, Jalan Teluk Bahang, Teluk Bahang, 11050 Tanjung Bungah, Pulau Pinang
Escape Admission Tickets
Go Street Art Spotting
This Malaysian island is home to dozens of street art murals. It is an excellent opportunity to get your little ones in touch with their artistic sides. But why take them on a Penang street art walk? Because not only can your children enjoy looking for colourful and unique art but also interact with them.
One of the kid-friendly places in Penang is on Armenian Street in Georgetown. It has many realistic 3D-inspired art pieces. So, children can be entertained for ages by playing on these 3D art bikes, benches, and market stalls. Pretending to be part of the mural is surprisingly fun for children and adults alike.
We suggest you snap a photo with the famous painting Brother and Sister on the Swing by Louis Gan Yee Loong or the mural by Ernest Zacharevic called Children in a Boat for a fantastic social media pic. The latter is near to a pier so your children will also see some seagulls and occasionally tropical fish.
Even if your kids aren't interested in taking photos, this kids' attraction in Penang makes a great hunting game. Encourage them to look around for fun and odd artwork and see how many they can spot. It will keep them engaged while you travel to and from different destinations in town.
In particular, there are many murals, colourful buildings, and events in Georgetown's UNESCO Historic Site.
You can check out the local street art website for a walking route. Alternatively, you can take a Beca tour to make sure you and your kids see them all. You can also visit most street art streets in the evenings as the roads are brightly lit - which would be a great after-dinner activity!
Georgetown Street Art
Georgetown, Pulau Pinang
Take a street art trail tour
Unique Things To Do With Kids in Penang
Visit a Penang Night Market
If you're looking for places to visit in Penang at night with kids, try going to a night market. You can find unique Malaysian toys and get them a souvenir to take home.
Moreover, the night markets are also perfect for a bite to eat. You can eat the best Penang street food here and fill up your children's stomachs after a long day of sightseeing. Make sure to sample the stir-fried rice noodles, steamed vegetable dumplings, and sweet Apom Manis crepes.
For us, going to a night market is the best way to experience the bustling nightlife in Penang. We suggest that you visit the bustling Macallum Street Night Market in Georgetown. This night market is the biggest outdoor market with clothing, souvenirs, and food like satay, chicken wings, and fried noodles in this area.
Alternatively, you could also head to the beach and check out the Batu Ferringhi Night Market on the north shore. You can buy trinkets like handmade bags, paintings, and jewellery there.
Busy kid-friendly places in Penang, like the night markets, can get crowded. So, make sure to hold your child tight and discuss beforehand what to do if they get lost.
To avoid crowds, go around 5 PM in the evening when it's the least crowded. The small stalls would be just setting up and most people wouldn't have finished work yet.
Batu Feringghi Night Market
Jalan Pantai Batu, Taman Pantai Batu, 11200 Tanjong Bungah, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Penang Night Market Tour
Take a Fun Trishaw Ride
One of the unique things to do with kids in Penang is trishaw riding. Your little ones will enjoy touring the area on a trishaw as there is so much to see! For example, during the excursion, your children would get a chance to see street art, beaches, and city views.
Trishaws typically fit one or two adult passengers, so your child can ride with you. Apart from their seats, trishaws don’t have any seat belts or safety railings. While trishaws move fairly slowly, the traffic can get quite busy in the cities, so we recommend hanging on to your child when they are seated.
If you’re in Georgetown, you can ask your trishaw guide to bring you around to see the street art. Though, expect the ride to last about an hour and remember to bring cash to pay. We suggest discussing and agreeing to a fee before riding the trishaw. Additionally, we suggest that you book your ride in the morning to avoid the afternoon tourist rush.
The best areas to rent a trishaw are the busy centres of Georgetown. It's the most popular area for trishaws because the narrow streets make trishaws one of the few feasible forms of transportation. Basically, other vehicles won't get in the way!
Trishaw Tour
278, Lebuh Victoria, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Georgetown Heritage Trishaw tour
Get on an electric bike around Georgetown
Another way to see Georgetown is by electric bike. Navigating the winding streets with a bike is a great way to take in local life and the city breeze. Furthermore, your children will also appreciate gliding through the streets whilst taking in street art, markets, and more. This activity is definitely one of the best things to do with kids in Penang.
If you don't know where to start, you can book a guided tour to see the island on an electric bike. Alternatively, you can get a private rental and go sightseeing on your own.
If you’re not comfortable with electric bikes, you can also rent regular bicycles.
The British heritage area of Georgetown is the best place to bicycle, as there are many things to see. For example, you would see the many murals, temples, piers, and 18th-century homes. In addition, Chulia Street and Armenian Street in Georgetown have many places to rent electric bikes.
Children under 12 can't ride alone on bikes, so choose a two-seater and ride with your child. You should do this activity in the early morning or late at night when temperatures are cooler. We also recommend checking the weather before deciding to cycle as there aren’t any covered roads for you to ride on in case of rain.
Chin Seng Leong e-Bike rental Tour
55, Lbh Armenian, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Google Maps
See sea life at Padang Kota
Head to Padang Kota beach and watch sea life with your children. Padang Kota is on the island's east border, just outside Georgetown. You get to enjoy the sea breeze and beautiful ocean view. If you’re lucky, you will also see some fish up close and observe them in their natural habitat. So, walk down to the seashore at Padang Kota and check out the marine life!
Come here and see swordfish, crabs, and the occasional wild turtle. One important is to be quiet when you’re close to the seashore. The sea animals tend to hide away if there’s a lot of noise. We thoroughly enjoyed spending time here and we think that this kids' attraction in Penang is great for children to learn while having fun.
Furthermore, Padang Kota is also close to some famous street food spots. For example, you can enjoy Hameed Pata’s Mee Sotong (spicy squid noodles) at Esplanade Park Food Court. You can also try the famous Penang pasembur at Gani Pasembur or Hussain King Pasembur at Medan Renong.
So, head over to Padang Kota just before sunset to enjoy the view and observe sea life. Then, stop by one of the food courts to grab a wonderful family dinner. If you’re planning to come during the day, we recommend bringing an umbrella as the seashore can get quite hot with little shade.
Padang Kota Lama
Esplanade Road, Jalan Padang Kota Lama, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Learn at Penang Bird Park
This Bird Park is on the mainland and offers educational shows, zoo tours, and a restaurant. With over 300 bird species, this kids' attraction in Penang can keep children busy for hours. This aviary is ideal for curious children of all ages. Your older children can learn about biology and wildlife, while your younger ones can run around the park or say hi to the flamingos.
However, please be aware that there are ponds with a low railings. So, keep away from the water if you have toddlers. The best time to visit the park is early morning before the sun gets hot. Furthermore, coming during the dry season is best, as most exhibits are outdoors.
Penang Bird Park
Jalan Todak Seberang Jaya, Perai 13700 Malaysia
Entopia Penang Butterfly Farm
Another one of the kid-friendly places in Penang is Entopia Butterfly Farm, just east of the national park. You can see hundreds of butterfly species, lush plants, and insects at this butterfly haven. Children can attend workshops for all ages, and families will enjoy frequent events like butterfly releases.
Entopia is ideal any time of year, and the exhibits accommodate the ever-changing weather. The best time to visit is in the early afternoon, before the after-school crowds that arrive around 4 PM. The morning is also lovely, as temperatures are cooler. Explore the outdoor gardens on a nice day or head inside to the butterfly arboretums when it's raining. This butterfly farm is definitely among the unique places to visit in Penang.
Entopia Penang Butterfly Farm
830, Jalan Teluk Bahang, Teluk Bahang, 11050 Tanjung Bungah, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Butterfly Farm Admission Ticket
Saanen Dairy Goat Farm
If you want to interact with animals and learn about local farm life, then Saanen Dairy Goat Farm is the spot for you. At this kids' attraction in Penang, you can see goats, chickens, ostriches, and other amazing animals. In addition to this, the family-run farm also sells local goat milk and yoghurt. They also feature a petting zoo, feedings, and many photo opportunities!
The farm is one of the fun places to visit on this island, and you'll have an unforgettable experience any time of the year. Activities are indoors or sheltered by outdoor barns, so you can even visit in the rainy season. So, add it to your list of kid-friendly places to visit in Penang, and bring your children to see the cute animals. We recommend visiting in the morning, as the tourist rush happens in the afternoon.
Saanen Dairy Goat Farm
298 Mukim 1 Sungai Pinang, 11010 Balik Pulau, Penang, Malaysia
Best Things To Do With Active Kids in Penang
Burn Some Energy at Penang Hill
If your family has especially active children, consider heading to Penang Hill or Bukit Bendera (the local Malay name of the hill). Your children can get their wiggles out on the hiking trails or relax at the Habitat lookout point.
Penang Hill Funicular Cable Car station
Bukit Bendera, Penang, Malaysia
Funicular ride ticket
Visit a Nature Biosphere Reserve at The Habitat
At the Habitat, children can have a scavenger hunt for animal and plant species. This activity will keep energetic children busy for hours. Furthermore, there are 100s of things to look at in this nature reserve, including squirrels, flying lemurs, and unique flowers.
In addition, you can take the funicular train and enjoy beautiful views of the city and forest below. Afterwards, why not grab a bite to eat at the top and continue nature-watching? You might even spot a rare cheeky Dusky Leaf Monkey!
In most cases, you will see wild animals like Black Giant Squirrels from a distance as they tend to shy away from people. So, we recommend bringing binoculars or a telephoto camera for your children. However, some animals, especially monkeys, may come to close proximity. Therefore, we recommend you keep your children away from them and do not try to feed them. The wild monkeys can get aggressive, so it’s best to keep your distance.
Finally, remember to stroll on the Curtis Skywalk, one of the best kid-friendly places in Penang. The circular walkway sits higher than the trees and offers unreal views of the rainforest and distant mountains.
The Habitat Penang Hill
Jalan Stesen, Bukit Bendera Air Itam, 11500 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
The Habitat Admission Ticket
Play at Batu Ferringhi Beach
Batu Ferringhi is one of the most popular beaches on the island and among the best things to do with kids in Penang. Visit on a sunny day to splash around in the waves, build sandcastles, or look out for precious shells.
At this sandy getaway, there's the opportunity to partake in exhilarating water sports. For example, you can try banana boating, parasailing, and boogie boarding. Meanwhile, the little ones can play in the sand or splash in the shallow waves. You can also sit back and watch the wildlife.
Why not end your fun day here by watching the iconic sunset as it is one of the top fun things to do with kids in Penang. After all the sun, sea and sand, the Penang beach has stands where you can pick up a quick snack for your children or grab a drink. Alternatively, you could head to a seafood restaurant or pop by the Batu Ferringhi night market.
Batu Feringghi Beach
Jalan Batu Ferringhi Batu Ferringhi, 11100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
The TOP Komtar (Indoor Theme Park)
The TOP Komtar is a great kids' attraction in Penang and is in the heart of Georgetown. It's a high building with city views 65 stories up. It is a perfect place for a photo or a fun evening with your children. It also has some of the best kid-friendly places in Penang, so check it out with your family soon.
Exploring the building is one of the best things to do at night in Penang. The city centre lights up and looks stunning from the tower. Take the children on the Rainbow Skywalk, a glass bridge that runs in a crescent shape on the side of the building, or go to the observatory deck for great views.
Furthermore, young ones will love the Jurassic Research Center, a museum with 200+ life-size animatronic dinosaurs. Families can also see virtual reality shows at the 7D Discovery Motion Theater or experience marine life at the aquarium.
Before you leave, check out the Dino Gym Penang indoor playground with hanging bridges, rock walls, and swing sets. However, please note that the Dino Gym is only for children under 12.
The TOP is a family-friendly kids' attraction in Penang for all ages and is fun any time of day. You can spend a whole day here easily. There are also indoor and outdoor options to prevent afternoon rains from ruining your trip. We suggest you go during the winter months because of the cheaper tickets and smaller crowds.
THE TOP at Komtar
1, Jln Penang, George Town, 10000 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
TOP Komtar Admission Ticket
Best Penang Kid Playgrounds To Take Your Kids To
Penang Youth Park
Go to the local youth park for some more outdoor time! Also called Municipal Park, the youth park is one of the best things to do with kids in Penang. There's a waterpark, jungle gym, and lots of green space for children to run around.
The park is halfway between Tanjung Tokong and Georgetown and is a great afternoon outing. Head to the park for a top Penang kid playground. Other things to do include swimming at the local pool or walking through the gardens.
As this is outdoors, the best times to come here are from November to January. In the other months, you might have to deal with heavy rain and humidity in other months. While there are trees providing some shade to the area, try and avoid midday as it will be extremely hot for young kids.
Penang Municipal Park (Youth Park)
Persiaran Kuari, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Penang Youth Park
Play at Sia Boey Urban Archaeological Park
You must see the unique architecture and experience the area's 500-year history at Sia Boey Urban Archaeological Park. This spot on the western coast is a part of the Georgetown UNESCO Historic Site, which encompasses Asian and European history.
The park is one of the best kid-friendly places in Penang because it has something for every age. Teens can walk down the river or get a photo op by the trees. Younger ones can burn some energy on the slides, watch the fish in the river, or check out the funky playground equipment.
Furthermore, Sia Boey is among the top places to visit in Penang at night. Local children from the local schools decorate the park with lanterns. In the evening, the dazzling flickers of these lanterns are a magical sight.
Sia Boey Urban Archaeological Park
50, Jalan Dr Lim Chwee Leong, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Spend the Weekend at Hin Bus Depot
The Hin Bus Depot is an art space ideal for children and one of the unique things to do with kids in Penang. This hidden spot is perfect for adults and youth alike. The area has a large green lawn with games for little ones, perfect for them to run around or play. Meanwhile, you can relax and take in all the art on display.
On the weekends, the Hin Bus Depot hosts a market with food, live music, and vendors. The vendors change slightly every week so it's worth visiting again if you're in the area. Each month, there are also free workshops that you can participate in with your kids. Some of the past workshops we've seen include lantern-making and batik painting.
You can buy street food from the market stalls or in the nearby cafes and take lunch at the Penang kid playground.
It's an outdoor space, so visit in the early morning or evening for peak weather conditions.
Hin Bus Depot
31A, Jalan Gurdwara, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Try Durian at 2 Acres Cafe
2 Acres Cafe is a small cafe that’s part of a durian estate near Balik Pulau. Although the cafe doesn't have a structured playground, there's a lot of open space. This is ideal for children who want to run and roam around in the grassy area.
Meanwhile, parents can sit on the benches and watch the little ones play or head into the cafe and keep an eye on them from the window. However, be aware that the open space is near a shallow pond with fish and ducks. Therefore, parental supervision is necessary for younger children.
As the cafe also doubles as a durian stall, 2 Acres Cafe is a great place for the whole family to enjoy the king of fruits together. Balik Pulau is famous for its durian farms so this is one of the best spots to try durian, especially if you’re a first-timer.
2 Acres Cafe
Lot 313, Jalan Teluk Bahang, Kampung Sungai Pinang, 11000 Balik Pulau, Pulau Pinang
Fun Things To Do With Kids in Penang When It Rains
Play Some Board Games at a Cafe
The Kazan by The Volcano is a dessert cafe in Georgetown that's ideal for a rainy day. They offer classic childhood games like snakes and ladders, chess, and other board games. You can also grab child-friendly snacks like cheese toasties, cream toast, and milk tea.
Kazan by The Volcano
56, Victoria St, Georgetown, 10300 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Alternatively, head to the Mugshot Cafe for some mind-teasing puzzle games and stay out of the rain. You can order cream cheese bagels and a coffee while your children entertain themselves with games, and children's books.
The Mugshot Cafe
302, Chulia St, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
For more fun things to do with kids in Penang on a rainy day, go to Chatto. This kid-friendly cafe in Penang has cards and Jenga for children. Their menu also features boba tea and healthy lunch bowls.
Chatto
143, Lebuh Carnarvon, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Go to a Pet Cafe
Check out the pet cafes for unique things to do with kids in Penang. We love pet cafes because you can grab a latte and hang out with furry friends. Pet cafes are among the best things to do with kids in Penang. Children who like animals will enjoy spending time with dogs and other animals. Meanwhile, you can chill with your favourite drink.
Georgetown has many pet cafes, like White Paws Mansion with huskies and Purrfect Cat Cafe with feline friends. Bark & Bean is a spot where you can bring your dog or hang out with the owner's Pomeranians. Remember to order a Taro cake with Shakerato coffee if you go there!
Bark & Bean Pet Wellness Lounge
18 Jalan Pantai Jerjak, Bayan Lepas, Penang Island 11900 Malaysia
Visit the Dark Mansion
For more fun things to do with kids in Penang, check out the Dark Mansion in Georgetown. Stroll through the halls as the art turns from 2D to 3D, and stop for a photo at the immersive mermaid painting. Children can pretend they are part of the painting and interact with the art at this kids' attraction in Penang. The museum also has glowing paintings that will fascinate children and impress adults, and some of the art is 3D.
With just five exhibits, the museum is small and easy to walk through in a few minutes. It's great for children's attention spans and one of the unique things to do with kids in Penang. Children are welcome at this modern art spot, and locals and students can get discounts. Moreover, you can visit this glow-in-the-dark museum, rain or shine.
Dark Mansion
145, Lebuh Kimberley, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Dark Mansion Admission Ticket
Teddyville Museum
For more fun things to do with kids in Penang, tour the teddy bear exhibits at the Teddyville Museum. The museum is near Batu Feringghi area.
The teddy bear displays are miniature versions of locations on the island, like busy roads with street food, quaint villages, and cute cafes. This kids' attraction in Penang has something for everyone, from life-sized exhibits with giant plush bears to interactive displays for children to play. They also have photo booths!
Expect to learn about Malaysian and Indian culture at this museum, which has displays of cultural festivals and traditions. The place is small and suitable for the whole family. Your children will feel energised by the exhibits. The Teddyville Museum is inside the Doubletree by the Hilton resort and is great to visit any time of year. However, the museum can get a bit busy in the afternoons, so shoot for a morning visit with fewer tourists.
Teddyville Museum
DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Penang, 56, Jalan Low Yat, Puncak Ria, 11100 Batu Ferringhi, Penang, Malaysia
Teddyville Museum Admission Ticket
Wonderfood Museum
The Wonderfood Museum is in Georgetown, two streets over from the beach. It's a fun way to learn about food history and one of the best things to do with kids in Penang.
This kids' attraction in Penang is interesting for the whole family. The colourful displays will delight little ones, and the history may appeal to older children. Learn about Nyonya food in Penang, food waste, food's role in culture and community, and issues around hunger.
Wonderfood is also a great way to learn about Malaysian culture. Children can discover Malaysian foods on display and take a guided tour. In particular, you will find a lot of larger-than-life dishes which you won't see anywhere else.
It's one of the more unique places to visit in Penang. The museum is busiest on the weekends and peaks around noon. Go to Wonderfood in the mornings to beat the rush at this kids' attraction in Penang.
Wonderfood Museum
49, Lebuh Pantai, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Wonderfood Museum Admission Ticket
List of Things To Do With Kids in Penang
- go on the World's longest zipline coaster at Escape Penang
- go street art spotting at night
- stroll through a Penang Night Markets
- take a leisure Trishaw Ride
- ride an Electric Bike in Georgetown
- find sea life at Padang Kota
- learn about birds at Penang Bird Park
- see different butterflies at Entopia Penang Butterfly Farm
- pet a goat at Saanen Dairy Goat Farm
- take a hike up Penang Hill
- try water sports at Batu Ferringhi Beach
- go to the TOP Komtar (indoor theme park)
- burn some energy at Penang Youth Park
- see the lanterns at Sia Boey Urban Archaeological Park
- spend half a day at Hin Bus Depot
- try durian at 2 Acres Cafe
- play some board games at a cafe
- go to a pet cafe
- get lost inside the Dark Mansion
- take adorable photos at Teddyville Museum
- learn about Malaysian food at Wonderfood Museum
The best things to do with kids in Penang range from amusement parks to bustling night markets. We hope you enjoyed our list and follow us on Instagram @tabitogether!
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